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Sunday, June 17, 2012

Happy Father's Day: Top Ten Things I Learned From My Dad

I'm sending out a very happy (long distance) Father's Day wish to my dad today! I'm not there to celebrate with him today, but we did get to visit last weekend during my brother's wedding reception weekend so we already had a bit of a pre-Father's Day celebration.

With that in mind, I wanted to dedicate today's blog post to my dad and pass on a sampling of the life lessons that he has passed on to my siblings and me over the past 20-something years. In my life he's always been the perfect combination of cheerleader, tough love, and goofball and although sometimes I couldn't stand him for it, I wouldn't be where I am now without it. Thanks, Dad for always knowing when I needed a parent and when I needed a friend-- you're the best!

1. If something seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
2. The "key change" is the best part of any song-- specifically 80's rock ballads.
3. In business and in love, success means taking a risk. You'll never get what you really want by playing it safe.
4. Always ask to speak with someone who is "empowered" if you actually want to see results. This is especially true in the customer service arena.
5. Stressing out over a situation won't accomplish anything. Except to make you more stressed out.
6. Buying on credit is a slippery slope into living beyond your means. And having money saved up means nothing when you're still in debt.
7. Everything tastes better when it's been cooked on the grill.
8. Respect and love are never a given. They have to be earned.
9. At some point you have to stop living your life for everyone else and just live it for yourself.
10. Embarrassing your children is one of life's greatest joys.

And because he's taught me so much, two bonus life lessons:

11. You're never too old for a prank, a Pee Wee Herman movie, a dance party, or a good "your mom" joke.
12. It's never too late to change the course of your future.

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A Squared is all about life, love, and the pursuit of great food here in the fabulous city of Chicago. I love food: both cooking (it's my therapy) and trying new restaurants. You can also find me exploring Chicago, traveling, drinking wine, studying architecture, and spending time with my husband, friends & family. And I will share it all with you here.
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